In the Jin Dynasty, Sima Lun, driven by ambition, seized power and lavished titles upon his followers, even granting ranks to servants and soldiers. Soon, there were not enough marten tails—the symbol of high office—to go around, so dog tails were used instead. This gave rise to the idiom “a dog’s tail added to a marten,” a metaphor for something inferior attached to something fine.
The lesson is timeless. Whether in power, wealth, or reputation, excess leads to absurdity. True wisdom lies in knowing when enough is enough. Forcing a poor fit only diminishes what is already good.
In life, as in art, harmony comes from balance. Seek substance over appearance, and let your actions match your values. Only then can you build something lasting and true.